Abu Dhabi’s highest mountain, Jebel Hafit, has so much to offer – from historic archaeological sites to stunning areas of natural beauty, it is one of the most popular places in the UAE to visit.
And now there’s another reason to head to Jebel Hafit – the new Jebel Hafit Desert Park, which aims to protect the area’s rich history and biodiversity as well as giving visitors the chance to understand how it has changed over millions of years.
At 1,240m, the peak stands guard over Al Ain and borders Oman. The limestone rock has been sculpted and weathered over millions of years.
The new park, on the eastern flank of the mountain, includes historic remains from the Neolithic period (8,000 years ago) and the 5,000-year-old tombs that were excavated at the request of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan in 1959. The Bronze Age tombs are made of local unworked or roughly cut stones and were created between 3200BCE and 2700BCE.
In 2011, UNESCO recognised the area as a component of the UAE’s first World Heritage Site. It is now an iconic attraction offering activities for every kind of visitor.
On-site activities at Jebel Hafit Desert Park include biking, with bike hire available on-site, hiking, with trails led by professional guides and a camping area, where you can pitch up your own tent.
There’s also the option for serviced camping, which includes a fully serviced overnight desert camping package, including meals in a Bedouin-style tent, or you can choose a luxury camping option which offers a five-star glamping experience in an air-conditioned bubble tent that offers the utmost comfort in a luxurious setting.
Also available are guided 4X4 drive tours, which offer the chance to go on an adventure and discover some of the park’s most scenic spots.
For more information, click here.
Jebel Hafit Desert Park, Al Ain, www.jebelhafitdesertpark.ae.
